I have wanted to visit Sardinia for the past four years, so when my plans to attend Cannes Lions fell through this year, I knew exactly where to reroute my travels. I booked the most glorious four-day solo escape to the jewel of the Mediterranean: Costa Smeralda, Sardinia.
Before my trip, I asked my Instagram audience for recommendations. Many people warned me that airport transfers would be expensive, that renting a car was essential, and that Porto Cervo was worth visiting but not necessarily worth staying in. While I can confirm the transfers are eye-wateringly expensive, I absolutely loved basing myself in the Porto Cervo/Cala di Volpe area for my first visit.
Below is my four-day itinerary, followed by a few important tips for anyone planning their first trip to Sardinia.
Day 1
Olbia Airport
Flew from London Gatwick to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport.
Hotel Petra Bianca
Checked into Hotel Petra Bianca, spent the afternoon relaxing by the pool, and soaked in the stunning views over Cala di Volpe.
Porto Cervo Sunset
Headed into Porto Cervo to explore both Porto Vecchio and Porto Nuovo, browse the boutiques, enjoy a cocktail along the marina, and end the evening with dinner at the breathtaking Langosteria.
Day 2
La Maddalena Boat Day
Sardinia is best experienced from the water. The sea here is some of the most pristine I’ve ever seen in the Mediterranean. I booked the seven-hour La Maddalena Archipelago catamaran tour with Sardinia Catamaran, which included aperitivo and lunch onboard. It was easily one of the highlights of the trip.
Dinner at Hotel Petra Bianca
After a full day on the water, I enjoyed a relaxed dinner back at the hotel.
Day 3
Liscia Ruja Beach Day
The beaches in Sardinia are among the most beautiful in the world. I spent the day at Liscia Ruja, the longest beach on the Costa Smeralda and one of the island’s most spectacular stretches of coastline. I had lunch at White Beach Club before renting one of their sun loungers for the afternoon.
Phi Beach Sunset & Dinner
In the evening, I headed to the iconic Phi Beach, an open-air venue famous for its sunset views, music, and nightlife. I had dinner at Nammos, where the live music, lively atmosphere, and front-row view of the sunset made for an unforgettable evening.
Day 4
San Pantaleo
Before heading home, I spent the morning through early afternoon exploring San Pantaleo, a charming, bohemian village nestled among the dramatic granite mountains of the Gallura region. It was the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, boutique shopping, and picking up a few last-minute souvenirs.
Olbia Airport
Flew from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport back to London Gatwick.
